Exploring Afro Surrealism and Cultural Icons with Alim Smith: Art, Hip Hop, and FX's Atlanta
Open your ears to 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, where Rob Lee is at the helm. Our today’s guest Alim Smith, a versatile interdisciplinary artist hailing from Delaware, who takes the art world by storm. With a portfolio showcased in prestigious art galleries predominantly along the East Coast of the United States, Alim's artistic prowess transcends traditional boundaries, owing to his extensive studies in Visual Art, Communicative Arts, and Photography. His creations, deeply rooted in cultural experiences, reflect a dynamic interplay of ideas drawn from self-discovery and a keen understanding of others. A testament to his creative breadth, Alim Smith has recently crafted promotional posters for Season 3 of Atlanta, seamlessly weaving his artistry into the fabric of contemporary pop culture and hip-hop influences.
In this talk, we navigate through:
- The creative realm of Alim Smith on this podcast episode, as we delve into how his artistic process is enriched by the vibrant tapestry of hip hop and pop culture, igniting a fusion of influences that shape his distinctive vision.
- An intriguing conversation as we explore the transformative "In Living Color" series by Alim Smith, where he skillfully reimagines black cultural icons that have deeply impacted his journey, unpacking the layers of inspiration and storytelling behind each vibrant creation.
- Uncover the captivating intersection of art and television as we discuss Alim Smith's notable commission to craft promotional artwork for FX's Atlanta, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the dynamic synergy of visual art and popular entertainment.
- In this episode, we delve into the resounding impact of Alim Smith's artwork on the artistic landscape and beyond, unraveling the remarkable journey sparked by overwhelmingly positive responses, and how these reactions have propelled him into a realm of new commissions and exciting opportunities.
Alim joins the podcast to discuss his background and artistic process. He shares his early experiences with art, including selling his first piece in middle school. Alim describes his style as Afro-Surrealism, which allows him to express his blackness in a unique and unconventional way. He also talks about his "In Living Color" series, which reimagines black cultural icons that have influenced his life. The conversation then shifts to his involvement with FX's Atlanta, where he was commissioned to create promotional artwork for the show. Alim discusses the process and the response he has received since the artwork was released.
Mentioned in this episode
Alim's website
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This program is supported (in part) by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation.
If you have a story about art, culture, or community, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on 'The Truth In This Art' podcast.
Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart
Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard.
Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art.
About "The Truth In This Art"
If you have a story about art, culture, or community, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on 'The Truth In This Art' podcast.
Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart
Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard.
Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art.
About "The Truth In This Art"
"The Truth In This Art," hosted by Rob Lee, is a podcast that explores the essence of creativity and its community impact, amplifying artists' voices and their profound stories.
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Creators and Guests
Host
Rob Lee
The Truth In This Art is an interview series featuring artists, entrepreneurs and tastemakers in & around Baltimore.
Guest
Alim Smith
Alim Smith, a versatile interdisciplinary artist hailing from Delaware, who takes the art world by storm.